According to health officials, there are seven simple healthy habits to have that can help prevent cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

They're a set known as the "simple seven" — steps you can take recommended by the American Heart Association to reduce the risk of heart disease.

But research now suggests that they make work to prevent certain cancers and type two diabetes.

So, what are they?

First exercise, eat well, make sure you maintain a healthy weight, steer clear of cigarettes, and maintain a healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar level.

And if those simple seven seem daunting don't worry, researchers say you only need to achieve as few as four to reduce your chances of diabetes by 70%.

But if you are one of those that are already at risk of type two diabetes, including certain ethnicities and those with abnormal blood sugar, the authors discovered less of a risk reduction so you should still set your goal to be checking off all seven boxes.

After all, according to the researchers you want to stay healthy and not wait until you get unhealthy to try and fix it.

Perhaps an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure afterall.

And coming up right here in Evansville next month, the Go Red for Women luncheon, which is an event to raise awareness about heart disease and how it affects women.

It's being held February 15 at the Old National Events Elaza. For more information, click here.

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